A Mayo priest who was involved in a legal dispute over the ownership of a house he shared with a former Franciscan friar has announced he plans to leave his parish to consider his commitments and the future.

In court on Friday, Ballina-based Father Gabriel Rosbotham was awarded 27% of a Donegal home he once shared with Hugo Crawford, with whom he was in a relationship.

You can read more about the case here.

In a letter to parishioners in Ballina and Crossmolina and the Diocese of Killala today, the Bishop of Killala John Fleming says the case had caused deep distress in the community.

Bishop Fleming writes that "since the court case ended I have met with Father Gabriel and he has decided to take some time to himself, away from the diocese, to reflect on his life, on the commitments he made and on his ministry, as well as to think about the future. I know that you will join with me in praying for him, as he seeks God’s guidance for the way forward.

"I am deeply aware of the sadness of very many people in this community, as well as the great shock felt by so many at the revelations made during the court case. I am offering this Mass for all of you and for all those hurt, distressed or disillusioned by what has happened," he explains.

Bishop Fleming adds that Fr Rosbotham "has received great appreciation for his pastoral care, his ability to relate to the young, his effectiveness as a preacher and, in particular, for his singing at Mass."